Black Lives Matter

There is great injustice across our land. From the militarized walls of our border to police shootings of our precious young men of African descent, there is injustice across our land. From the corporate takeover of the halls of justice to the great poverty in this land of unimaginable wealth, there is injustice across our land.

Often excluded from decision-making spaces, and devalued and discounted by mainstream culture, youth in Seattle are still the most vocal, militant, and visible group on the front lines of political actions. They are the ones speaking out against structural racism and oppression.

Stay calm. Don’t run. Don’t argue, resist or obstruct the police, even if you are innocent or police are violating your rights. Keep your hands where police can see them.

Ask if you are free to leave. If the officer says yes, calmly and silently walk away. If you are under arrest, you have a right to know why.

You have the right to remain silent and cannot be punished for refusing to answer questions. If you wish to remain silent, tell the officer out loud. In some states, you must give your name if asked to identify yourself.

You do not have to consent to a search of yourself or your belongings, but police may “patdown” your clothing if they suspect a weapon. You should not physically resist, but you have the right to refuse consent for any further search. If you do consent, it can affect you later in court.